Synopsis: This book offers “…a revolutionary approach to child rearing with twelve key strategies that foster healthy brain development, leading to calmer, happier children. The authors explain—and make accessible—the new science of how a child’s brain is wired and how it matures. The “upstairs brain,” which makes decisions and balances emotions, is under construction until the mid-twenties. And especially in young children, the right brain and its emotions tend to rule over the logic of the left brain. No wonder kids throw tantrums, fight, or sulk in silence. By applying these discoveries to everyday parenting, you can turn any outburst, argument, or fear into a chance to integrate your child’s brain and foster vital growth.”

Why I can’t live without this book: I’ve read a fair share of parenting books in my lifetime, but none of them have made as much sense as this one. And here’s the deal, at least for those of us who are parents: this one may not be your jam. But it might be – so if you’re looking for a practical guide to understanding and implementing the whole of who your child is, check this one out. I also recommend a hard copy of it; I read it on Kindle and wished I had it in print so I could some of the reference points.

(One of my) favorite quotes: “It’s also crucial to keep in mind that no matter how nonsensical and frustrating our child’s feelings may seem to us, they are real and important to our child. It’s vital that we treat them as such in our response.” Validation, man. It matters.

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So, The Whole Brain Child: did you read it? Otherwise, what’s the best parenting book you’ve read?